Articles tagged with "climate-action"
US Intimidation Leaves Future of Shipping Uncertain But Appetite for Green Future Remains - CleanTechnica
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has postponed the vote to adopt the landmark Net-Zero Framework (NZF) for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from shipping by one year, delaying the decision until October 2026. This delay resulted from pressure and obstruction tactics by the United States, Saudi Arabia, and other countries, undermining years of progress on the IMO’s climate plan. The postponement risks the framework not coming into force until 2030, prolonging uncertainty in the shipping sector’s decarbonization efforts. Despite the setback, there remains strong global interest in advancing a greener shipping industry. Environmental groups emphasize the need for climate-ambitious countries to build a coalition supporting meaningful emission reductions, rather than allowing geopolitical interests to stall progress. The additional time before adoption is seen as an opportunity to strengthen the NZF by incorporating clear incentives for scalable green e-fuels and safeguards against biofuel-driven deforestation. Meanwhile, the European Union is urged to continue enhancing its own regional policies on shipping emissions
energygreen-shippingmaritime-emissionsnet-zero-frameworkclean-energysustainable-shippingclimate-actionUS-Led Pressure On Shipping Deal An Attack On EU Sovereignty, Says T&E - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica reports that the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other oil-producing countries are pressuring the European Union to abandon its stringent green shipping regulations in favor of a weaker global agreement under negotiation at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), known as the Net Zero Framework (NZF). This framework would impose only modest carbon pricing on shipping emissions and is criticized for being significantly less ambitious than the EU’s existing measures, such as the Emissions Trading System (ETS) and the FuelEU Maritime law, which mandate carbon pricing and green fuel use. The pressure includes demands for the EU to drop its own carbon pricing and green fuel mandates, which would undermine years of progress in Europe’s decarbonization and energy transition efforts. Transport & Environment (T&E), an environmental advocacy group, warns that accepting the US-led deal would compromise EU sovereignty and climate leadership by handing control over to foreign oil interests. The NZF would exempt about 85% of Europe’s shipping emissions from carbon
energydecarbonizationshipping-emissionscarbon-pricinggreen-fuelsEU-energy-policyclimate-action192 New EV Fast Charging Ports To Be Installed In Ireland - CleanTechnica
Ireland’s Department of Transport has announced the installation of 90 new electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs featuring 192 fast charging ports, each averaging about 250 kW. This initiative marks the final major phase of Ireland’s Light Duty Vehicle program, aiming to create a national EV charging network with charging hubs spaced no more than 30 kilometers (approximately 18 miles) apart. The goal is to alleviate range anxiety by ensuring convenient and reliable access to high-powered chargers across both urban and rural areas, thereby supporting local economies, tourism, and regional development. The plan aligns with Ireland’s broader climate goals, including achieving climate neutrality by 2050 and increasing renewable electricity generation to 80% by 2030. The government emphasizes that expanding charging infrastructure is key to encouraging EV adoption, noting that average daily travel distances in Ireland are relatively short, making frequent fast charging more practical than ultra-long-range EVs. Comparisons are drawn to places like California and the Netherlands, where dense charging networks have successfully
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-chargingfast-charging-portsrenewable-energyclimate-actioninfrastructure-developmentInaction On Climate Change Is Equivalent To A Suicide Pact - CleanTechnica
The article "Inaction On Climate Change Is Equivalent To A Suicide Pact" by Antara Haldar, featured on CleanTechnica, explores the parallels between the collapse of past civilizations—most notably the Roman Empire—and the current global failure to adequately address climate change. Haldar highlights how the Roman Empire, despite its vast infrastructure and connectivity across Europe and Asia, ultimately fell due to a combination of factors including environmental damage, institutional decay, and leadership failures. She emphasizes that while technology often receives credit or blame for societal outcomes, the adaptability and resilience of institutions play a more critical role in determining a civilization's survival. Haldar draws on various scholarly perspectives to analyze why civilizations decline, referencing thinkers like Jared Diamond, Joseph Tainter, Arnold Toynbee, and others who attribute collapse to factors such as environmental degradation, societal inertia, military overreach, disease, and extractive elites. The article also touches on contemporary debates about economic growth and political responses to crises, citing recent works by
energyclimate-changeenvironmental-policysustainabilityglobal-warmingclean-energyclimate-actionClimate Week NYC Recap, Part 2.1: The Empire (State) Strikes Back - CleanTechnica
The article provides a detailed overview of Climate Week NYC with a focus on New York State and City’s proactive climate actions amid federal inaction. New York is positioning itself as a national leader in climate initiatives, exemplified by a $1 billion investment through the Sustainable Future Program aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in homes, schools, and communities while creating jobs and promoting environmental justice. Governor Hochul and other officials emphasized the state’s commitment to a just transition, particularly for communities disproportionately affected by climate change, and highlighted New York’s unique challenges such as extreme seasonal temperatures and aging building infrastructure that contribute significantly to emissions. Key strategies include implementing new building codes to electrify and decarbonize new constructions, upgrading over 50,000 large existing buildings to reduce carbon emissions, and leveraging efficiency improvements to facilitate electrification and lower energy costs. The state aims for 70% renewable energy by 2030 and 100% emission-free electricity by 2040, despite challenges from federal policies like the Trump administration
energyrenewable-energyenergy-efficiencyclimate-actiongreen-economybuilding-electrificationsustainable-infrastructureMust Climate Action Take Second Place To Fighting For Democracy? - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica discusses the tension between prioritizing climate action and defending democracy, particularly in the context of the Trump administration's authoritarian tendencies in the US. While some public figures, like former Labor Secretary Robert Reich, argue that democracy must be secured before effective climate action can occur, the article contends that fighting for climate justice is inherently a fight for democracy itself. It highlights how democratic institutions have been compromised by corporate interests, especially the fossil fuel industry, which undermines both environmental progress and democratic integrity. The Trump administration’s policies are criticized for exacerbating climate change, weakening environmental regulations, and alienating international allies committed to the Paris Agreement. The article emphasizes that despite the fragility of democratic structures, urgent and significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are necessary to meet climate goals. It challenges the notion that climate action must wait for political shifts, advocating instead for immediate grassroots and social movement efforts to counteract misinformation and corporate influence. Democracy, when functioning properly, empowers citizens to collectively address climate
energyrenewable-energyclimate-actiongreenhouse-gas-emissionsfossil-fuelsParis-Agreementenvironmental-policyElected Officials Reject The Trump Administration's Attacks On Solar - CleanTechnica
The article highlights bipartisan elected officials’ opposition to the Trump Administration’s actions that have hindered the progress of solar energy projects, particularly in Arizona. It emphasizes the critical role of renewable energy, like solar power, in combating climate change and enhancing energy security amid increasing extreme weather events such as wildfires, droughts, and heat waves. The Tempe Public Library complex serves as a case study, showcasing how solar installations provide over 70% of its power needs, reduce carbon emissions significantly, and offer community benefits such as shaded gathering spaces. Despite these successes, a major $156 million Solar-For-All grant intended for Arizona was rescinded under the Trump Administration, threatening the state’s clean energy goals and disproportionately impacting marginalized communities. Local leaders, including Tempe’s mayor and members of the Elected Officials to Protect America group, stress the importance of federal funding for clean energy initiatives to support vulnerable populations and meet climate targets. The article underscores the potential of the Inflation Reduction Act’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction
energyrenewable-energysolar-powerclean-energyclimate-actionenergy-securitysustainabilityA Push For Change In The US Electoral College Gives Us Hope For Future Climate Action - CleanTechnica
The article discusses the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact (NPVIC), an initiative aiming to reform the U.S. Electoral College system by ensuring the presidency goes to the candidate who wins the national popular vote. Currently, a candidate must secure at least 270 of 538 electoral votes, which are mostly awarded on a winner-takes-all basis by states. The NPVIC has been enacted by 17 states plus Washington D.C., totaling 209 electoral votes, and will only take effect once states controlling at least 270 electoral votes join. Advocates argue this reform would encourage presidential candidates to campaign nationwide rather than focusing on a handful of battleground states, thus engaging a broader electorate. The article also highlights the political and fiscal divides between "blue" and "red" states, noting that many blue states contribute more to the federal government than they receive, fueling tensions and discussions about coordinated state policies and resistance to federal authority. This context underscores the broader challenges in U.S. governance and collective action
energyclimate-changeenvironmental-policyUS-Electoral-Collegecollective-actioncarbon-footprintclimate-actionMethanol’s Surprise Rise & Hydrogen’s Decline In Dutch Scenarios - CleanTechnica
The article presents a discussion among energy experts involved in planning the Netherlands' 2050 target grid scenario, focusing on the evolving roles of methanol and hydrogen in the country's energy transition. The conversation highlights a surprising rise in methanol's significance contrasted with a decline in hydrogen's projected use within Dutch energy scenarios. The experts emphasize practical approaches to decarbonization, particularly in the building sector, where electrification is prioritized alongside targeted fabric improvements to support efficient heat pump deployment without excessive capital expenditure. Key takeaways include the recognition that while deep building retrofits (e.g., full façade replacements) are costly and slow, incremental insulation measures—such as roof, cavity wall, and underfloor insulation—can optimize electrification efforts by enabling smaller heat pumps and reducing wasted investment. The dialogue also touches on the broader theme that systemic changes, like urban redesign and mass transit electrification, are necessary but will take decades and substantial investment, making interim solutions like electric vehicles and partial building upgrades essential. Overall,
energyhydrogenmethanolclean-energyenergy-transitionrenewable-energyclimate-actionInvestor State Dispute Settlement Rules Protect Private Investors From Climate Action - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica discusses the controversial role of Investor State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) treaties in protecting private investors, often at the expense of climate action and public interest. ISDS agreements originated as a mechanism to safeguard foreign investors—particularly in resource extraction industries—from nationalization and unfair treatment by host governments, ensuring they could recover investments and expected profits. However, the process is criticized for its secrecy and potential for abuse: disputes are resolved by private tribunals with little transparency, and only investors can initiate claims against governments, which may be compelled to compensate investors using taxpayer funds. This system has disproportionately benefited fossil fuel companies, with many cases settled confidentially, often involving large compensation payouts to investors from developing countries. A recent example highlighted is an ISDS claim by investors from Singapore and the UK against the UK government over a proposed coal mine in West Cumbria, the first in the UK in 30 years. The mine was canceled by a British court due to environmental misstatements in
energyinvestor-state-dispute-settlementfossil-fuelsinternational-financeclimate-actionforeign-investmentenvironmental-policyZayed Sustainability Prize Sees Surge in Global Participation with 7,761 Entries - CleanTechnica
The Zayed Sustainability Prize, a global award based in the UAE now in its 17th year, has seen a significant surge in participation for its 2026 cycle, receiving 7,761 entries from 173 countries—a 30% increase from the previous cycle. The Prize recognizes innovative solutions across six categories: Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action, and Global High Schools, with a focus on empowering SMEs, nonprofits, and schools to scale sustainable innovations that improve lives, particularly in vulnerable communities. This year’s submissions highlight a growing integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, direct air carbon capture, and fintech tools with community-led approaches, emphasizing inclusive, locally adapted development. Notably, around 85% of entries came from developing and emerging economies, with India, Ethiopia, Uzbekistan, Brazil, and Indonesia among the top contributors, alongside developed nations like the UAE and the USA. The Food and Climate Action categories attracted the most submissions, reflecting urgent global concerns about food security
energysustainabilityclean-energyAI-technologyclimate-actioninnovationglobal-developmentWould A Lottery Reward Make People More Likely To Recycle? - CleanTechnica
The article explores the potential of lottery-based rewards to increase recycling rates, addressing common barriers such as inconvenience, lack of immediate payoff, and low motivation. Despite trillions of beverage containers used annually, recycling rates remain modest—34% for glass bottles, 40% for plastic, and 70% for aluminum cans. Traditional bottle deposit systems, which refund a small amount per returned container, exist in multiple countries and regions and have some success. However, researchers propose that adding a lottery element—where each recycled container acts like a lottery ticket with a small chance of winning a large prize—could significantly boost recycling participation by tapping into human attraction to gambling and rewards. Several studies underpin this approach, including psychological frameworks like operant conditioning that emphasize rewards to reinforce positive environmental behaviors. One study compared a typical fee-based policy with a lottery incentive for reusable cup use, finding no significant difference in perceived behavior change, suggesting that the lottery’s impact might vary by context. However, a Canadian research team tested a
energyrecyclingsustainabilityenvironmental-behaviorclimate-actionwaste-managementincentivesHyundai Motor Celebrates 10 Years of IONIQ Forest With "Tree Correspondents" Campaign - CleanTechnica
Hyundai Motor Company is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its IONIQ Forest project, which has successfully planted 1 million trees across 13 countries since its launch in 2016. Originally started to mark the debut of the Hyundai IONIQ Electric, the project expanded globally in 2021 with the IONIQ 5 launch. The initiative supports reforestation efforts aimed at combating climate change, restoring ecosystems, and preserving biodiversity in regions including the U.S., Brazil, Korea, Germany, and others. To mark this milestone, Hyundai introduced the "Tree Correspondents" campaign, an innovative AI-driven storytelling effort that gives trees a "voice" by translating real-time ecological data into first-person narratives using a bespoke large language model (LLM). This campaign highlights the urgent need for forest conservation and climate action by sharing insights on climate change impacts and forest ecosystem deterioration. The campaign has received significant recognition, winning two Gold Lions and one Silver Lion at the 2025 Cannes Lions International
energyAIenvironmental-conservationclimate-actionHyundai-IONIQreforestationecological-dataTowards 2040: A Strengthened ETS to Support the Transition of the Shipping Sector - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica discusses Transport & Environment’s (T&E) recommendations for strengthening the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) specifically for the maritime sector, in light of the upcoming policy review and the EU’s 2040 climate targets. T&E emphasizes that both the EU ETS and the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Net Zero Framework (NZF) must be maintained and reinforced, as relying on either mechanism alone is insufficient to ensure the shipping industry meets its climate responsibilities. T&E’s briefing highlights the importance of a robust regulatory framework that integrates these systems to effectively reduce shipping emissions and support the sector’s transition towards decarbonization by 2040. The article underscores the need for coordinated policy efforts to align maritime emissions reductions with broader EU climate goals, although it does not provide detailed specifics on the proposed changes or measures within the ETS review.
energyemissions-trading-systemEU-ETSmaritime-sectorclimate-actionshipping-emissionsnet-zero-frameworkWhy We Should Pay Attention To Gen Z's Climate Demands - CleanTechnica
The article highlights Generation Z (born 1997–2012) as a digitally savvy and environmentally conscious cohort that demands transparency and tangible climate action from brands and institutions. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z rejects superficial sustainability claims and greenwashing, instead insisting on verifiable data and real progress. This generation disproportionately feels the emotional and mental health impacts of climate change and natural disasters, fueling their activism and consumer choices. Key statistics show that a significant portion of Gen Z is willing to change jobs over climate concerns, push employers for sustainable practices, prefer sustainable brands, and pay more for eco-friendly products. Their engagement signals a critical call to action for governments, companies, and organizations to provide meaningful pathways for climate agency and systemic change. A particular focus for Gen Z is on Scope 3 emissions—those indirect emissions from a company’s supply chain and product use, which typically make up around 80% of a company’s carbon footprint. Gen Z expects businesses to measure, disclose, and reduce these emissions through
energyclimate-changesustainabilitycarbon-emissionsGen-Zenvironmental-impactclimate-actionGreen 10 to Ursula von der Leyen: Defend the European Green Deal - CleanTechnica
The Green 10, a coalition representing over 50 million Europeans from all EU member and candidate countries, has urged European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to steadfastly defend the European Green Deal (EGD). In a letter, they emphasize the critical importance of the EGD amid emerging geopolitical challenges, disinformation campaigns, and attacks on civil society that threaten to undermine the deal, EU democracy, and the broader European project. Citing the June 2025 Eurobarometer, the group highlights that 85% of Europeans recognize climate change as a major global threat, underscoring the public mandate for continued climate action. The letter stresses that the European Commission must champion the Green Deal as a strategy of hope, resilience, and fairness, warning against any political backtracking motivated by short-term economic interests. The coalition points to recent extreme heat events, such as record-breaking temperatures at Wimbledon causing health emergencies, as tangible evidence of the urgent climate crisis. They call for high-level attention to the intertwined
energyEuropean-Green-Dealclimate-changesustainabilityenvironmental-policyrenewable-energyclimate-actionLynk & Co Unveils Revised Sustainability Strategy in 2024 Report - CleanTechnica
Lynk & Co International has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, outlining a revised strategy focused on advancing sustainable mobility through intensified climate action, circular economy initiatives, and strengthened governance. The updated strategy, developed using a double materiality assessment and aligned with the CSRD/ESRS framework, centers on three pillars: Climate Action, Circular Economy, and Responsible Business. The company has set ambitious targets including achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2044, reducing car life-cycle CO₂e emissions by 50% by 2030, and sourcing 100% renewable electricity for battery production by 2025. Key achievements in 2024 include the launch of Lynk & Co’s first fully electric vehicle in Europe, the Lynk & Co 02, a 54% reduction in total emissions since 2022, and over 6,000 peer-to-peer car-sharing sessions generating €400,000 in payments to car owners via the company’s platform.
energysustainabilityelectric-vehiclesrenewable-energyclimate-actioncircular-economycarbon-emissions-reductionPoll: Two-thirds of Canadians favour developing clean energy over fossil fuels, while 85% wish to maintain or increase federal climate action - Clean Energy Canada
A recent survey by Abacus Data for Clean Energy Canada reveals strong Canadian support for prioritizing clean energy development over fossil fuels. Two-thirds (67%) of respondents favor investing in clean energy projects such as critical minerals, renewable power, and energy storage, compared to 33% who prefer conventional fossil fuel projects like oil, gas, and LNG. While both sectors are seen as important to Canada’s economy over the next decade, clean energy holds a slight edge, especially among those who view one sector as "very important." This reflects a broad consensus that clean energy will play a crucial role in the country’s future. Support for federal climate action remains robust amid ongoing climate challenges, with 85% of Canadians wanting the government to maintain or increase efforts to combat climate change. Only 14% believe the government should reduce its climate initiatives. This support spans regions and political affiliations, including 72% in Alberta and 70% of Conservative supporters. Younger Canadians (ages 18-29) are particularly
clean-energyrenewable-powerenergy-storageclimate-actionsustainable-constructionlow-carbon-materialselectric-vehicle-chargingA No Kings Day Demand For Climate Action And Democracy Protections - CleanTechnica
The article emphasizes the importance of standing up for social safety programs and democratic protections on No Kings Day, highlighting critical programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance, Medicare, Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, and veterans' services. It stresses the need to defend immigrants' rights and the right to peaceful assembly while calling for urgent climate action. The article critiques former President Donald Trump’s policies, arguing they undermine the U.S.’s ability to combat climate change, damage international alliances like the Paris Agreement, and threaten democratic principles by concentrating power in a manner reminiscent of monarchy. The piece explains that the Founding Fathers designed the U.S. government as a republic with checks and balances to prevent tyranny, contrasting this with the autocratic tendencies seen in Trump’s leadership. It notes that the climate crisis is a unique challenge that spans both present and future generations, requiring consistent, long-term policies rather than erratic measures like the “TACO” (Trump Always Chickens Out) tariff approach. The article calls for strong,
energyclimate-changeenvironmental-policyrenewable-energysustainabilityclimate-actionfossil-fuelsConcerts as Catalysts: How Musicians Are Driving Clean Energy Action with Their Fans - CleanTechnica
clean-energyclimate-actionsustainabilityelectric-vehiclesrenewable-energyeco-friendlymusic-festivalsI Took The Pledge To Help Other Women Switch To Electric Vehicles - CleanTechnica
electric-vehiclesclean-energyclimate-actionEV-adoptionwomen-in-technologysustainable-transportationzero-emissionsB.C. climate action has reduced emissions, with economic success - Clean Energy Canada
energyemissions-reductionclean-technologyelectric-vehiclesclimate-actionrenewable-energycarbon-taxYesterday’s Congressional Attack on Clean Transportation - CleanTechnica
energyelectric-vehiclesclean-transportationpollution-reductionclimate-actionzero-emission-technologiesautomotive-innovationJob posting: Policy Analyst
clean-energyrenewable-energyclimate-actionenergy-policyclean-technologyenergy-transitionsustainabilityJob posting: Policy Advisor
clean-energyrenewable-energyclean-transportationclimate-actionpolicy-analysisdecarbonizationelectric-vehiclesClimate accountability report highlights need to modernize B.C.’s approach to climate action
climate-actionBritish-Columbiaclean-energyclimate-accountabilityzero-emission-vehiclescarbon-pricingenvironmental-policyPoliticians in peril if B.C. loses ground on clean energy policies
clean-energyclimate-changeBritish-Columbiapolitical-impactvoter-behaviorclimate-actionrenewable-energy